Toy Projectile Launching Assembly

ABSTRACT

A toy projectile launching assembly for launching toy projectiles includes a platform defined by a rigid shallow “V-shaped” structure with a flat base portion. The flat base has an upper and lower surface including rigid left and right extensions having rigid left and right elastic supports and a rigid central region disposed between the left and right extensions, rigid interior left and right elastic supports situated between the rigid exterior left and right elastic supports, first and second elastic launching elements extending continuously from the left elastic support to the right elastic support, a handle, an arm support, and an arm support strap. Also disclosed are methods of making and using the toy projectile launching assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.18/235,269, filed Aug. 17, 2023, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 16/841,427, filed Apr. 6, 2020, and U.S.Design patent application No. 29/885,816, filed Mar. 1, 2023, which arerelied upon and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety andto which priority is claimed. The entire disclosure of any publicationor patent document mentioned herein is entirely incorporated byreference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to toy bow and arrow systems.More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a toy bow assemblyfor launching toy arrow projectiles. The present disclosure also relatesgenerally to a toy projectile launch assembly. More particularly, thepresent disclosure relates to a toy projectile launch assembly forlaunching toy projectiles.

BACKGROUND

Toy bow and arrow sets designed for children's play are now beingmanufactured as rigid structures with fewer moving components to formsafer assemblies. An elastic string is used to create the arrowlaunching force and prevent bending of the bow. Indeed, if the elasticstring is overdrawn, there is no significant chance of the bow breaking.Rather, the elastic string will break and will most likely move in adirection away from the person drawing the bow. However, some dangers inthe elastic string breaking are still present depending upon where theelastic string breaks and how much energy is stored in the elasticstring at the time it breaks. Thus, to make these toy bow and arrowassemblies even safer, toy bow and arrows sets are employing twodistinct elastic elements each terminating in a separate and distinctloop structure. The idea is that since there are two elastic loops, eachelastic loop need only provide half the force needed to project thearrow projectile into flight, thereby making it more difficult tooverstretch the elastic elements and reducing potential failure of theelastic elements.

However, there are drawbacks to the separate and distinct elastic loopstructures in that they hinder the launch projection of the toy arrowprojectile. Indeed, since there are two distinct elastic components asopposed to one, more rotational pull is created on the arrow projectileduring launch, which thwarts its projection. Moreover, current toy bowand arrow sets provide no means for stabilizing the bow as the elasticelement is drawn. Rather, they simply have a handle for grasping whiledrawing the elastic element, which creates tension in one direction andtension on the band in a separate direction. This tension impedes thelaunch of the arrow projectile, thereby thwarting its projection.

Accordingly, there is a need for a toy projectile launching assemblythat eliminates rotational pull created by the elastic element andstabilizes the bow during launch of the arrow projectile, while stillreducing the dangers to a child caused by the potential overdrawing ofthe bow to the point of breaking.

Accordingly, there is a need for a toy projectile launching assemblythat: eliminates rotational pull on the toy projectile created by theelastic element; stabilizes the toy projectile launching assembly duringlaunch of the projectile; and reduces the dangers to a user (e.g., achild or a challenged of inexperienced adult) caused by the potentialoverdrawing of the elastic elements.

While these units may be suitable for the particular purpose employed,or for general use, they would not be as suitable for the purposes ofthe present disclosure as disclosed hereafter.

In the present disclosure, where a document, act or item of knowledge isreferred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not anadmission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combinationthereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to thepublic, part of common general knowledge or otherwise constitutes priorart under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to berelevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which the presentdisclosure is concerned.

While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussedto facilitate the present disclosure, no technical aspects aredisclaimed and it is contemplated that the claims may encompass one ormore of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY

An aspect of an example embodiment in the present disclosure is toprovide a toy projectile launching assembly that is capable of launchinga toy projectile while minimizing the rotational pull created by thelaunch of the toy projectile. Accordingly, the present disclosureprovides a toy projectile launching assembly including a pair ofcontinuously extending parallel elastic launching elements that areengageable by a toy projectile and move in concert over substantiallylinear trajectories or axes so as to prevent rotational pull duringlaunch.

An aspect of an example embodiment of the present disclosure is toprovide a toy projectile launching assembly including a handle that ispositioned outside of the launch area so as to prevent interference withthe launch of the toy projectile by a hand grasping the handle.Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a handle separated by aplatform over which the toy projectile is launched, thereby creating aclear separating structure that separates a user's hand from the launchsite.

An aspect of an example embodiment of the present disclosure is toprovide a toy projectile launching assembly that is better stabilizedduring operation. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides an armsupport that is configured to engage the wrist or the forearm of auser's arm when the handle is grasped by the user's hand so as tostabilize the toy projectile assembly while drawing and releasing thepair of elastic launching elements.

An aspect of an example embodiment in the present disclosure is toprovide an improved toy projectile launching assembly that is capable oflaunching a toy projectile while minimizing the rotational pull createdby the launch of the toy projectile on the projectile and the assembly.Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a toy projectile launchingassembly including a platform defined by a rigid shallow “V-shaped”structure with a flat base, and a pair of continuously extendingparallel elastic launching elements that are engageable by a toyprojectile, and the elastic elements stretch in concert oversubstantially linear trajectories or axes so as to prevent rotationalpull during launch.

An aspect of an example embodiment of the present disclosure is toprovide a toy projectile launching assembly including a handle that ispositioned outside of the launch area so as to prevent interference withthe launch of the toy projectile by a hand grasping the handle.Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a handle separated by aplatform over which the toy projectile is launched, thereby creating aclear separating structure that separates a user's hand from the launchsite.

An aspect of an example embodiment of the present disclosure is toprovide a toy projectile launching assembly that is better stabilizedduring operation. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides an armsupport that is configured to engage the wrist or the forearm of auser's arm when the handle is grasped by the user's hand so as tostabilize the toy projectile assembly while drawing and releasing thepair of elastic launching elements.

The present disclosure addresses at least one of the foregoingdisadvantages. However, it is contemplated that the present disclosuremay prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies in anumber of technical areas. Therefore, the claims should not necessarilybe construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems ordeficiencies discussed hereinabove. To the accomplishment of the above,this disclosure may be embodied in the form illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact, however, thatthe drawings are illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as beingpart of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like elements are depicted by like reference numerals.The drawings are briefly described as follows.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the toy projectile launching assemblyaccording to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the toy projectile launching assembly accordingto one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the toy projectile launching assembly in use,illustrating the arm support mounted on a wrist/forearm to stabilize thetoy projectile launching assembly according to one embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the toy arrow projectile engagingthe elastic launching element of the toy projectile launching assemblyprior to the elastic launching element being stretched for launch,illustrating the axes upon which the elastic launching element travelswhile being drawn back and during launch according to one embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the toy arrow projectile engagingthe elastic launching element of the toy projectile launching assemblyprior to the elastic launching element being stretched for launch,illustrating the horizontal and vertical axes upon which the toy arrowprojectile applies a force to the elastic launching element while beingdrawn back according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a perspective close-up view of the left wing of the toyprojectile launching assembly, illustrating the interior post andexterior post and the interior cavity of the exterior post in which oneend of the elastic launching element terminates according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a bottom plan view of the exterior post of the left wing ofthe toy projectile launching assembly, illustrating one manner in whichthe elastic launching element is fastened within the interior cavity ofthe exterior post according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the toy projectile launching assemblywith a toy arrow projectile mounted thereon, illustrating one manner inwhich the toy projectile launching assembly may hold toy arrowprojectiles thereon according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the toy projectile launching assemblyin use, illustrating one manner in which the elastic launching elementis engaged with a toy arrow projectile to position the toy arrowprojectile for launch with the elastic launching element according toone embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the toy projectile launching assemblyin use, illustrating the toy projectile launching assembly stabilized onan arm with the arm support and the elastic launching element drawn backwith the toy arrow projectile prior to launch according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an improved toy projectile launchingassembly 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a front side view of the toy projectile launching assembly ofFIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the toyprojectile launching assembly of FIG. 7 emphasizing the right-sideproximal and distal elastic supports.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross section view of a portion of the interiorright-side elastic support 118I of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 is an enlarged frontal perspective view of a portion of the toyprojectile launching assembly emphasizing the assembled left-side distalelastic support 114E including a twist-lock retention bracket 125according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a portion of the enlarged perspective view of FIG. 11emphasizing the assembled left-side distal elastic support 114Eincluding the exploded twist-lock retention bracket 125.

FIG. 13 is an exploded portion of the enlarged perspective view of aportion of the toy projectile launching assembly emphasizing an end of ahollow elastic 122 and a mating double-nippled bead 131 according toanother embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the combined components ofFIG. 13 showing a bead and elastic combination 133.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the twist-lock retentionbracket 125 that inserts into the distal elastic support 114E shown inFIG. 12 .

FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the distal elastic supportinsert shown in FIG. 12 showing the combined insert configured with thebeaded elastic combination shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the toy launcher assembly showing apartial exploded view of a compartment 200 having a cover 210 in thecentral region that permits the handle 156 to be removably attached tothe rigid “V-shaped” frame 100 according to another embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a magnified perspective view of the partial assembly of thehandle 156 engaged to the rigid “V-shaped” frame 100 of FIG. 17 throughan aperture with the cover 210 removed for clarity.

FIG. 19 is a magnified perspective view of the partial assembly of thehandle 156 attached and locked into position with the rigid “V-shaped”frame 100 of FIG. 17 with the cover 210 removed for clarity.

FIG. 20 is a magnified rear perspective view of the arm support 158having an upper and lower portion, and an optional clasp for tighteningor loosening the tension in the arm support band (such as an elasticflat band) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, which show various exampleembodiments. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to the exampleembodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments areprovided so that the present disclosure is thorough, complete and fullyconveys the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the Figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a toy projectile launchingassembly 10 configured to launch toy arrow projectiles. The toyprojectile launching assembly 10 comprises a rigid crossbow structureincluding a left wing 12 having a left elastic support 14, a right wing16 having a right elastic support 18, a central region 20 disposedbetween the left wing 12 and the right wing 16, a first elasticlaunching element 22 extending continuously from the left elasticsupport 14 to the right elastic support 18, and a second elasticlaunching element 24 extending continuously from the left elasticsupport 14 to the right elastic support 18. The first and second elasticlaunching elements 22, 24 are configured to bend and/or pivot about theleft and right elastic supports 14, 18 and stretch rearwardly over thecentral region 20 to launch a toy projectile.

The left wing 12 defines a left body 12L including an outer end 28L, aninner end 30L, an upper surface 32L, a lower surface 34L opposite theupper surface 32L, a distal side 36L, a proximal side 38L, and an innerside 40L. The right wing 16 defines a right body 16R including an outerend 28R, an inner end 30R, an upper surface 32R, a lower surface 34Ropposite the upper surface 32R, a distal side 36R, a proximal side 38R,and an inner side 40R. The central region 20 connects the left wing 12to the right wing 16. The left wing 12 and the right wing 16 aresymmetrical about the central region 20. The first elastic launchingelement 22 and the second elastic launching element 24 extend along thedistal side 36L of the left body 12L and the distal side 36R of theright body 16R. In embodiments, the proximal side 38L of the left body12L and the proximal side 38R of the right body 16R include one or morefasteners 39 for removably receiving toy arrow projectiles, as shown inFIGS. 6A-6C.

The left elastic support 14 comprises a left exterior post 14E disposedon the outer end 28L of left body 12L and a right interior post disposed14I on the inner end 30L of the left body 12L. The left exterior post14E and the left interior post 141 extend substantially orthogonallyupwardly from the upper surface 32L of the left body 12L.

The right elastic support 18 comprises a right exterior post 18Edisposed on the outer end 28R of right body 16R and a right interiorpost 18I disposed on the inner end 30R of the right body 16R. The rightexterior post 18E and the right interior post 181 extend substantiallyorthogonally upwardly from the upper surface 32R of the right body 16R.The left exterior post 14E and the right exterior post 18E aresymmetrical about the central region 20. The left interior post 141 andthe right interior post 181 are symmetrical about the central region 20.

The first elastic launching element 22 and the second elastic launchingelement 24 are coplanar and extend substantially parallel relative toeach other above the central region 20. In this way, the first andsecond elastic launching elements 22, 24 may pivot and stretch inconcert. The first elastic launching element 22 comprises a first end22F and a second end 22S. The second elastic launching element 24comprises a first end 24F and a second end 24S. The first elasticlaunching element 22 and the second elastic launching element 24 areanchored to the left exterior post 14E and the right exterior post 18E.In embodiments, the first end 22F of the first elastic launching element22 and the first end 24F of the second elastic launching element 24 areattached within the left exterior post 14E. The second end 22S of thefirst elastic launching element 22 and the second end 24S of the secondelastic launching element 24 are attached within the right exterior post18E. In this way, the first ends 22F, 24F are anchored to the leftexterior post 14E and the second ends 22S, 24S are anchored to the rightexterior post 18E.

FIGS. 5A-5B, shows an interior cavity 54 disposed within the leftexterior post 14E and the right exterior post (not shown) in which thefirst ends 22F, 24F of the first and second elastic launching elements22, 24 and the second ends (not shown) of the first and second elasticlaunching elements 22, 24 are anchored. In some embodiments, the firstends 22F, 24F are knotted within the left exterior post 14E and thesecond ends (not shown) are anchored to the right exterior post (notshown).

Referring back to FIG. 1 , the left interior post 141 and the rightinterior post 181 each include a first aperture 44L, 44R and a secondaperture 46L, 46R. The first elastic launching element 22 is guidedthrough the first aperture 44L of the left interior post 141 and thefirst aperture 44R of the right interior post 181. The second elasticlaunching element 24 is guided through the second aperture 46L of theleft interior post 141 and the second aperture 46R of the right interiorpost 181.

The first elastic launching element 22 and the second elastic launchingelement 24 each include a continuous midpoint region 22M, 24M spanningbetween the left interior post 141 and the right interior post 18I thatis configured to stretch to launch the toy arrow projectile. Themidpoint regions 22M, 24M move and/or stretch in concert when stretchingto launch the toy arrow projectile and define the regions of the firstand second launching elements 22, 24 that act on the toy projectile tolaunch the same. The midpoint regions 22M, 24M of the first and secondelastic launching elements 22, 24 define a gap 26 therebetween that issized to allow movement of a toy arrow projectile therethrough.

The left interior post 141 and the right interior post 181 are proximateto the central region 20 and define a launch region 42 therebetweenabout which the first elastic launching element 22 and the secondelastic launching element 24 are configured to stretch and launch thetoy arrow projectile. The left interior post 14I and the right interiorpost 181 each define the pivot about which the first elastic launchingelement 22 and the second elastic launching elements 24 bend and/orpivot in concert when stretching.

The first elastic launching element 22 and the second elastic launchingelement 24 are biased towards the left interior post 141 and rightinterior post 181, such that the further the first elastic launchingelement 22 and the second elastic launching element 24 are stretchedaway from the left interior post 141 and right interior post 18I themore elastic potential energy is created in the first elastic launchingelement 22 and the second elastic launching element 24.

The central region 20 includes an upper surface 48 and a lower surface50 (see FIG. 2 ). The upper surface 48 of the central region 20 isstepped downwardly relative to the upper surface 32R of the right wing16 and the upper surface 32L of the left wing 12 such that the centralregion 20 is positioned on a lower horizontal plane relative to ahorizontal plane of the right wing 16 and a horizontal plane of the leftwing 12. In this way, the central region 20 does not obstruct the launchof a toy arrow projectile. In embodiments, the upper surface 32L of theleft wing 12 and the upper surface 32R of the right wing 16 arecoplanar, while the central region is positioned in a horizontal planebelow the plane of the upper surfaces 32L, 32R of the left and rightwings 12, 16.

The central region 20 defines a platform 20P connecting the inner side40L of the left body 12L to the inner side 40R of the right body 16R.The central region 20 forms a space 52 between the inner side 40L of theleft body 12L and the inner side 40R of the right body 16R, such thatthe continuous midpoint regions 22M, 24M of the first elastic launchingelement 22 and the second elastic launching element 24 are disposedabove the space 52. The space 52 formed by the central region 20 is forthe purpose of creating a clearance between first and second elasticlaunching elements 22, 24 and the platform 20P to prevent obstruction orinterference by the platform 20P during launch of the toy arrowprojectile. The platform 20P provides an area where a user may rest atoy arrow projectile when operating the toy projectile launchingassembly 10, for instance before or after engaging the first and secondlaunching elements 22, 24.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , in conjunction with FIG. 1 , the toyprojectile launching assembly 10 comprises a handle 56 extendingsubstantially orthogonally downwardly from the lower surface 50 of thecentral region 20 and an arm support 58 extending outwardly from thecentral region 20, such that the handle 56 is separated from the launchregion (see FIG. 1 ) by the central region 20. The handle 56 defines amidline axis of the toy projectile launching assembly 10 over which theleft wing 12 and the right wing 16 are symmetrical. In embodiments, thehandle 56 comprises a pistol grip.

The arm support 58 extends away from the handle 56 so as to engage auser's arm 57 when the user is grasping the handle 56 with his or herhand 59. When engaging the user's arm 57, the arm support 58 stabilizesthe toy projectile assembly 10 while the user is drawing or stretchingand releasing the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24.

The arm support 58 comprises a pair of symmetrical arms 60 and an armband 62 that connects the pair of arms 60 to each other. The arm band 62extends substantially parallel relative to the left wing 12 and theright wing 16. The arm band 62 is configured to engage the user's arm 57when the handle 56 is grasped. Each of the pair of arms 60 comprises aproximal end 64 and a distal end 66. In embodiments, the arm band 62 isarcuate to conform to the contours or the user's arm 57. The pair ofarms 60 are connected to the central region 20 at the proximal ends 64.The pair of arms 60 converge at the proximal ends 64 and diverge towardsthe distal ends 66. The arm band 62 connects the distal ends 66 of thepair of arms 60 to define an opening 68 between the distal ends 66 andthe proximal ends 64. The opening 68 is configured to accommodate atleast a portion of the user's arm 57 therethrough when the arm band 62is engaging the user's arm 57 and the user is grasping the handle 56. Inthis way, the arm support 58 does not interfere with the user's abilityto grasp the handle 56. Each of the pair of arms 60 comprises a firstregion 60F adjacent the proximal end 64 and a second region 60S adjacentthe distal end 66. The first region 60F bends into the second region 60Ssuch that the first region 60F extends substantially parallel relativeto the handle 56 and the second region 60S extends substantiallyorthogonal relative to the handle 56.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6C, in embodiments, the toy projectile launchingassembly 10 comprises toy arrow projectiles 70. The toy arrowprojectiles 70 includes a pair of hook elements 71, 72. The pair of hookelements 71, 72 are sized and shaped to engage the midpoint regions 22M,24M of the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 as thepair of hook elements 71, 72 are pulled though the gap 26 formed betweenthe midpoint regions 22M, 24M. To load the toy arrow projectile 70, thetoy arrow projectile 70 is threaded through the gap 26 within the launchregion 42 so that the pair of hook elements 71, 72 engage the midpointregions 22M, 24M of the first and second elastic launching elements 22,24. Once engaged with the midpoint regions 22M, 24M the toy arrowprojectile 70 is drawn in a manner similar to a traditional crossbow. Asthe toy arrow projectile 70 is drawn away from the launch region 42 thefirst and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 stretch. The midpointregions 22M, 24M bend and pivot about the left and right interior posts141, 181, thereby enabling the first and second elastic launchingelements 22, 24 to move with the toy arrow projectile 70.

As the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 stretch, theygain potential energy. When the toy arrow projectile 70 is released, thefirst and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 retract and the toyarrow projectile 70 is accelerated towards the launch region 42. At thelaunch region 42, the midpoint regions 22M, 24M of the first and secondelastic launching elements 22, 24 retracts through the launch region 42.The momentum in the toy arrow projectile 70 formed by the retraction ofthe first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 causes the toyarrow projectile 70 to continue forward through the launch region 42 andout of the gap 26. This launches the toy arrow projectile 70 into flightas the pair of hook elements 71, 72 disengage the midpoint regions 22M,24M of the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, it may be seen that the first and secondelastic launching elements 22, 24 are configured to stretch alongseparate but parallel axes 74, 76, respectively. The midpoint regions22M, 24M of the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24maintain a fixed normal distance relative to each other when being drawnand when retracting to launch the toy arrow projectile 70. In this way,the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 do not interferewith each other when retracting, nor cause a rotational pull on the toyarrow projectile 70 when moving forward.

When the toy arrow projectile 70 is loaded, the pair of hook elements71, 72 vertically engage the first and second elastic launching elements22, 24, such that the pair of hook elements 71, 72 are aligned along avertical axis. The distance between the pair of hook elements 71, 72 issubstantially the same as the distance between the first and secondelastic launching elements 22, 24, such that when the pair of hooks 71,72 engage the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 they donot alter the position and/or distance between the first and secondelastic launching elements 22, 24. This enables the toy arrow projectile70 to draw the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24rearwardly along parallel axes.

When drawing the first and second elastic launching elements 22, 24 withthe toy arrow projectile 70 the toy arrow projectile exerts a forcealong a vertical axis 78 that is orthogonal to the first and secondelastic launching elements 22, 24 and a force along a horizontal axis 80that is parallel to the first and second elastic launching elements 22,24. Accordingly, when the toy arrow projectile 70 is released, areciprocal vertical and horizontal force is exerted onto the toy arrowprojectile 70, which stabilizes the toy arrow projectile 70 along alinear trajectory, minimizing any rotational force or pull createdthereby or exerted thereon by the first and second elastic launchingelements 22, 24.

The left wing 12 defines a left body 12L including an outer end 28L, aninner end 30L, an upper surface 32L, a lower surface 34L opposite theupper surface 32L, a distal side 36L, a proximal side 38L, and an innerside 40L. The right wing 16 defines a right body 16R including an outerend 28R, an inner end 30R, an upper surface 32R, a lower surface 34Ropposite the upper surface 32R, a distal side 36R, a proximal side 38R,and an inner side 40R. The central region 20 connects the left wing 12to the right wing 16. The left wing 12 and the right wing 16 aresymmetrical about the central region 20. The first elastic launchingelement 22 and the second elastic launching element 24 extend along thedistal side 36L of the left body 12L and the distal side 36R of theright body 16R. In embodiments, the proximal side 38L of the left body12L and the proximal side 38R of the right body 16R include one or morefasteners 39 for removably receiving toy arrow projectiles, as shown inFIGS. 6A-6C.

The left elastic support 14 comprises a left exterior post 14E disposedon the outer end 28L of left body 12L and a right interior post disposed14I on the inner end 30L of the left body 12L. The left exterior post14E and the left interior post 141 extend substantially orthogonallyupwardly from the upper surface 32L of the left body 12L.

The right elastic support 18 comprises a right exterior post 18Edisposed on the outer end 28R of right body 16R and a right interiorpost 18I disposed on the inner end 30R of the right body 16R. The rightexterior post 18E and the right interior post 181 extend substantiallyorthogonally upwardly from the upper surface 32R of the right body 16R.The left exterior post 14E and the right exterior post 18E aresymmetrical about the central region 20. The left interior post 141 andthe right interior post 181 are symmetrical about the central region 20.

The first elastic launching element 22 and the second elastic launchingelement 24 are coplanar and extend substantially parallel relative toeach other above the central region 20. In this way, the first andsecond elastic launching elements 22, 24 may pivot and stretch inconcert. The first elastic launching element 22 comprises a first end22F and a second end 22S. The second elastic launching element 24comprises a first end 24F and a second end 24S. The first elasticlaunching element 22 and the second elastic launching element 24 areanchored to the left exterior post 14E and the right exterior post 18E.In embodiments, the first end 22F of the first elastic launching element22 and the first end 24F of the second elastic launching element 24 areattached within the left exterior post 14E. The second end 22S of thefirst elastic launching element 22 and the second end 24S of the secondelastic launching element 24 are attached within the right exterior post18E. In this way, the first ends 22F, 24F are anchored to the leftexterior post 14E and the second ends 22S, 24S are anchored to the rightexterior post 18E.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-20 , in embodiments of the present disclosure,the toy projectile launching assembly 100 comprises a platform definedby a rigid shallow “V-shaped” structure with a flat base portion, theflat base has an upper U surface and a lower L surface. The platformincludes a rigid left extension 112 having a rigid left elastic support114E, a rigid right extension 116 having a rigid right elastic support118E, and a rigid central region 120 disposed between the left extension112 and the right extension 116. The platform further includes aninterior left elastic support 114I and an interior right elastic support118I situated between the rigid exterior left elastic support 114E andthe rigid exterior right elastic support 118E, a first elastic launchingelement 122 extending continuously from the left elastic support 114E tothe right elastic support 118E, a second elastic launching element 124extending continuously from the left elastic support 114E to the rightelastic support 118E, a handle 156 attached to the lower L surface atthe flat base, an arm support 158 structure having a left side and rightside that extends downwardly and rearwardly from the platform, and anarm support strap 162 attached to the left side and right side of thearm support 158 structure.

The platform's rigid shallow “V-shaped” structure with a flat baseportion may be envisioned in FIGS. 7 and 8 when viewed from the front Fview or rear R view along the virtual F-R “eye” line. The flat baseportion on the upper U surface is below the elastics 122, 124 in thecentral region 120. The region between the elastics 122, 124,vertically, and between the interior left elastic support 114I and theinterior right elastic support 118I, horizontally, define the launchzone or window. The launch zone or window is where the assembly receivesone or more projectiles such as shown in related launcher 10 in FIG. 6B.The flat base on the lower L surface locates a point of attachment withthe handle 156.

The first elastic launching element 122 and the second elastic launchingelement 124 may each be removably attached to the rigid left elasticsupport 114E and the rigid right elastic support 118E.

Both ends of the first elastic launching element 122 and both ends ofthe second elastic launching element 124 may each be removably attachedto two different removable brackets 125 situated within and attached tothe lower L surface side of the rigid left elastic support 114E and therigid right elastic support 118E.

Both ends of the first elastic launching element 122 and both ends ofthe second elastic launching element 124 may include a sub-assemblyincluding a mated double-nippled bead and hollow elastic combinationconfigured for attaching the launching elements 122, 124 to theremovable bracket through retention slots 129.

The interior left elastic support 114I and an interior right elasticsupport 118I may each include an axle-roller assembly 115, 119 toaccommodate freely reversible stretch, bend, run, or roll of the firstand second elastic launching elements 122,124, about the roller-axlesubassembly, and to reduce frictional wear of the first and secondelastic launching elements 122,124 during launching of a projectile.

Each axle-roller assembly 115, 119 may be reversibly attached to theinterior left elastic support 114I and an interior right elastic support118I.

Each axle-roller assembly 115, 119 may be permanently attached to theinterior left elastic support 114I and an interior right elastic support118I.

The handle 156 may be, for example, reversibly attachable-detactable tothe lower L surface of the platform and extends substantiallyorthogonally downwardly from the lower L surface of the central region120.

The handle 156 may be, for example, permanently attached to the lower Lsurface to the platform.

The arm support strap 162 may include, for example, a clasp 165 toadjust the tension of the strap 162 and the resulting comfort andstability to an operator.

The both ends of the first elastic launching element 122 and both endsof the second elastic launching element 124 may be, for example, eachremovably attached to a removable bracket 125 situated within a cavityand attached to the lower L surface side of the rigid left elasticsupport 114E and the rigid right elastic support 118E with knots of theelastic situated in the retention slots 129.

The first elastic launching element 122 and the second elastic launchingelement 124 may be, for example, coplanar and extend substantiallyparallel relative to each other above the central region 120.

The rear edges of the platform may include, for example, one or morefasteners, such as a press-fit or snap-in-place fastener, for removablyreceiving and holding one or more toy projectiles.

In embodiments, the handle 156 may be, for example, a pistol grip.

In embodiments, the disclosure provides a toy projectile launchingassembly 100 that may be manufactured or sold without selectedconsumables or wear-and-tear items such as the elastic elements orprojectiles comprising a platform defined by a rigid shallow “V-shaped”structure with a flat base portion, the flat base has an upper U surfaceand a lower L surface. The platform includes a rigid left extension 112having a rigid left elastic support 114E, a rigid right extension 116having a rigid right elastic support 118E, and a rigid central region120 disposed between the left extension 112 and the right extension 116.The platform further includes an interior left elastic support 114I andan interior right elastic support 118I situated between the rigidexterior left elastic support 114E, and the rigid exterior right elasticsupport 118E, a handle 156 attached to the lower L surface at the flatbase, an arm support 158 structure having a left side and a right sidethat extends downwardly and rearwardly from the platform, and an armsupport strap 162 attached to the left side and right side of the armsupport 158 structure.

In embodiments, the toy projectile launching assembly 100 may furtherinclude selected consumables, for example, a first upper elasticlaunching element 122 (i.e., an elastic) extending continuously from theupper left elastic support 114E, through the upper interior left elasticsupport 114I and the upper interior right elastic support 118I, and tothe upper right elastic support 118E, and a lower second elasticlaunching element 124 extending continuously from the lower left elasticsupport 114E, through the lower interior left elastic support 114I andthe lower interior right elastic support 118I, and to the lower rightelastic support 118E.

In embodiments, the disclosure provides a method of making the toyprojectile launching assembly having a “V-shaped” platform, comprisinginjection molding a suitable resin into a suitably configured mold toform the platform having the rigid shallow “V-shaped” structure havingthe flat base portion, attaching components to the platform including aroller-axle subassembly joined to the interior left elastic support 114Iand the interior right elastic support 118I, a substantiallyorthogonally oriented handle to the lower surface of the platform, anadjustable arm support strap between the sides of the arm support, andone or more projectile fasteners. In embodiments, the method furthercomprises assembling components and attaching the assembled componentsto the platform including threading each end of a first elasticlaunching element 122 through the upper left elastic support 114I andthe upper interior right elastic support 118I and attaching the threadedends to the upper attachment points of the left and right removablebrackets, threading each end of a second elastic launching element 124through lower left elastic support 114I and the lower interior rightelastic support 118I and attaching the threaded ends to the lowerattachment points of the left and right removable brackets, andinserting the left and right removable brackets having the threaded andattached elastic elements into their respective rigid exterior leftelastic support 114E cavity, and the rigid exterior right elasticsupport 118E cavity.

Referring to the FIGS. 7-20 , simultaneously, the toy projectilelaunching assembly 100 structure shown and described in FIGS. 7-20 ismost notably distinguished from the toy projectile launching assemblyshown and described in FIGS. 1-6 , by having its elastic members 122,124 associated with and attached to both the upper surface U and lowersurface L of the assembly 100. The upper surface U and lower surface Lof the assembly 100 are opposite or opposing surfaces of the rigidplatform. This disclosed improved disposition of elastic members 122,124 provides advantages to the manufacture of the assembly, replacementor repair of broken or damaged elastic members, and in-use advantagesthat prevent rotational pull of the platform during the launch ofprojectiles that provides better aim of the launcher and better accuracyof the launched of projectiles.

FIG. 7 illustrates a further modified toy projectile launching orlauncher assembly 100 configured to launch toy projectiles. The toyprojectile launcher assembly 100 includes a rigid platform defined by arigid and shallow “V-shaped” structure (viewed from the front-eye “F” orrear-eye “R”) having a flat base or bottom, including a rigid leftextension 112 having a rigid left elastic support 114E, a rigid rightextension 116 having a rigid right elastic support 118E, a rigid centralregion 120 disposed between the left extension 112 and the rightextension 116, a first elastic launching element 122 extendingcontinuously from the left elastic support 114E to the right elasticsupport 118E, and a second elastic launching element 124 extendingcontinuously from the left elastic support 114E to the right elasticsupport 118E. The first and second elastic launching elements 122, 124are configured to separately attach to their respective left and rightelastic supports 114E, 118E, and when in-use stretch rearwardly over thecentral region 120 to launch a toy projectile. The first and secondelastic launching elements 122 (upper), 124 (lower) (“elastics”) arealso separately configured to each thread through the interior leftelastic support 114I and the interior right elastic support 118I. Theinterior left elastic support 114I and the interior right elasticsupport 118I, are configured to permit the first and second elasticlaunching elements 122, 124 to freely reversibly stretch and bend aroundthe roller-axle assemblies 115, 119 fastened within the interior leftelastic support 114I and the interior right elastic support 118I. Alsoshown is handle 156, arm support 158, and arm support strap 162.

FIG. 8 is a front view F of the toy projectile launching assembly ofFIG. 7 . The “V-shaped” flat bottom platform has an upper U surface anda lower L surface. The rigid left elastic support 114E and the rigidright elastic support 118E may be reversibly fastened to the lower Lsurface of the platform, whereas the interior left elastic support 114Iand the interior right elastic support 118I may be irreversiblyattached, such as fastened or molded to the upper U surface of theplatform. The reversible fastening of the supports 114E and 118E to thelower L surface of the platform permits rapid installation of theelastics during manufacture or assembly, or for rapid repair andreplacement of a broken or damaged elastic by an owner-operator. Rapidinstallation or replacement of the elastics also permits upgrading ordowngrading the draw loading strength of the launcher such as forchanges in age, strength, or skill level. Also shown is the upperelastic 122, the lower elastic 124, handle 156, arm support 158, and armsupport strap 162.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective rear-eye R view of a portion of thetoy projectile launching assembly of FIG. 7 emphasizing the right-sideproximal and right-side distal elastic supports including the interiorright-side elastic support 118I and the right-side elastic support 118E.Also shown are the roller-axle assembly including the right roller 115and the hidden axle 117, a portion of the upper elastic 122 and thelower elastic 124, arm support 158, and arm support strap 162. Both theupper elastic 122 and the lower elastic 124 may be separated from eachother and confined to a parallel track path by, for example, an upperspacer bracket 121 and a lower spacer bracket 123. The brackets 121 and123 may be, for example, open toward the rear-view R to allow press-fitinstallation or replacement of the roller-axle assembly in the interiorright-side elastic support 118I, the interior left elastic support 114I,or both. Alternatively, the brackets 121 and 123 may be, for example,closed toward the rear-view R to prohibit the roller-axle 115, 117assembly from inadvertently releasing from a fixed lateral position ineither of the interior right-side elastic support 118I, the interiorleft elastic support 114I, or both. In a closed bracket configuration,the roller-axle 115, 117 assembly may be, for example, molded in-place,spring loaded during initial construction, or both.

Although the interior left elastic support 114I is not shown in detailin FIG. 9 or FIG. 10 , one of skill recognizes by symmetry amirror-image identical structure for the support 114I.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-section view of the right-side elasticsupport 118I and roller-axle assembly showing the roller 115 and axle117 or post, lower bracket 123 (closed configuration), and a portion ofthe lower elastic 124 at section 10-10 of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective front view F of a portion of the toyprojectile launching assembly emphasizing the assembled rigid leftelastic support 114E and the rigid interior left elastic support 114I.FIG. 11 is an enlarged frontal perspective view of a portion of the toyprojectile launching assembly emphasizing the assembled left-sideproximal 114E support and left-side distal elastic 114I support. Thelower and upper elastics 124, 122, respectively, are separately threadedthrough the roller-axle assembly (not shown) in the left-side distalelastic 114I support. The lower and upper elastics 124, 122, areseparately anchored to a twist-lock elastic retention-bracket 125(hidden) that is inserted into position from below and locked intoposition from below. The assembled left-side distal elastic 114E supporthas a vertical slot 127 in the side-wall surface to accommodate thepass-through of the lower and upper elastics 124, 122. The assembledright-side proximal elastic 118E support is, by symmetry, similarlysituated and constructed as described above for the distal elastic 114Esupport.

FIG. 12 is a portion of the enlarged perspective view of FIG. 11emphasizing the assembled left-side distal elastic support 114Eincluding the exploded twist-lock retention bracket 125 (inserted frombelow or the lower L surface direction). Also shown are the elastics122, 124 connected to the exploded twist-lock retention bracket 125through the bead and elastic combinations discussed further in FIGS. 13to 16 .

FIG. 13 is an exploded portion of the enlarged perspective view of aportion of the toy projectile launching subassembly emphasizing an endof a hollow elastic 122 and a mating double-nippled bead 131.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the combined components ofFIG. 13 showing the assembled bead and elastic combination 133.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the twist-lock retentionbracket 125 that inserts into the distal elastic support 114E shown inFIG. 12 . The twist-lock retention bracket 125 includes retention slots129 for receiving and retaining the assembled bead and elasticcombination 133 shown in FIG. 14 . Alternatively, the bracket 125 andslots 129 may receive and retain an elastic knot end (not shown).

FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the distal elastic supportinsert shown in FIG. 12 showing the combined insert configured with thebeaded elastic combination 133 shown in FIG. 14 . The combined insertconfigured with the beaded elastic combination 133 shown in FIG. 14 isinserted into the cavity of the left-side distal elastic support 114Efrom the lower side and surface L of the platform. By symmetry, acombined insert identically configured with a beaded elastic combination133 shown in FIG. 14 is also inserted into a cavity of the right-sidedistal elastic support 118E from the lower surface L of the assembly.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the “V-shaped” toy launcher assembly100 from the rear R and above, showing a partial exploded view of acompartment or cavity 200 having a cover 210 in the rigid central region120 that permits the handle 156 to be removably attached to the rigid“V-shaped” frame 100. In assembly, the removable handle 156 ispositioned at a 90 degree vertical angle to insert the handle 156 intothe cavity 200 having a twist-lock mating surface with the unfastenedhandle 156A position 180A as shown in FIG. 18 . Then the inserted handle156 is rotated 90 degrees (e.g., clockwise) to lock the handle 156B inproper forward facing orientation with the twist-lock mating surface180B as shown in FIG. 19 . Also shown for reference are previouslyillustrated members: opening 168 between the arm support 158, belowwhich an operator's arm is positioned to engage the correctly orientedhandle 156 and the arm support strap 162; the exterior rigid elasticsupport 114E; the interior elastic support 114I; the rigid elasticsupport 118E; and the interior elastic support 118I. In alternativeembodiments, the handle 156 may be attached to the platform by anysuitable attachment method such as molding the handle 156 to theunderside (i.e., the lower L surface side) of the platform while moldingthe platform (i.e., an integral handle generation), plastic orultrasonic welding the handle 156 to the underside of the platform,attaching the handle 156 to the underside of the platform with asuitable adhesive such as an engineering grade plastic such as an epoxyand like durable adhesives or sealants, and like alternative handlegeneration or attachment methods.

Suitable plastics for rigid portions of the platform or piece-parts mayinclude, for example, standard thermoplastics, engineering plastics, andhigh-performance thermoplastics. Semi-crystalline plastics are preferredfor their properties (e.g., opaque, flexible, and chemically resistant).Amorphous plastics are less preferred for their properties (e.g.,transparent, brittle, and not chemically resistant). Semi-crystallineplastics that are rigid but have a limited amount of flexibility arepreferred. A limited amount of flexibility means, for example, that whenthe launcher engages and launches a projectile, the rigid platform orpiece-parts will not significantly deform or flex over time, includingactual launcher use and ambient storage time, to interfere with thelauncher structure and launcher function. Suitable engineering gradeplastics for rigid portions of the platform or piece-parts may include,for example, polyamides, polycarbonates, poly (methyl methacrylates),ABS, and like plastics.

Suitable method for forming plastics for rigid portions of the platformor piece-parts may include, for example, injection molding, vacuum sheetmolding, emboss or stamp molding, and like methods.

FIG. 18 is a magnified perspective view of the partial assembly of thehandle 156 engaged to but unattached to the underside (lower side L) ofthe platform of FIG. 17 through an aperture with the cover 210 removedfor position verification and clarity.

FIG. 19 is a magnified perspective view of the partial assembly of thehandle 156 attached and locked into position with the platform of FIG.17 with the cover 210 removed for position verification and clarity.When the handle 156 is properly secured in the twist-lock mating surfacethe cover 210 may be press-fit into a proper covered positioned as shownin FIG. 7 .

FIG. 20 is a magnified rear R perspective view of the arm support 158area of the platform, an arm support strap or band 162 optionally havingan upper and lower portion, and an optional clasp 165 for tightening orloosening the tension in the arm support band (such as an elastic flatband). Also shown is a portion of the forward facing handle 156.

It is understood that when an element is referred hereinabove as being“on” another element, it may be directly on the other element orintervening elements may be present therebetween. In contrast, when anelement is referred to as being “directly on” another element, there areno intervening elements present.

Moreover, any components or materials may be formed from a same,structurally continuous piece or separately fabricated and connected.

It is further understood that, although ordinal terms, such as, “first,”“second,” “third,” are used herein to describe various elements,components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components,regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms.These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region,layer or section from another element, component, region, layer orsection. Thus, “a first element,” “component,” “region,” “layer” or“section” discussed below could be termed a second element, component,region, layer or section without departing from the teachings herein.

Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,”“upper” and the like, are used herein for ease of description todescribe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) orfeature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It is understood that thespatially relative terms are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in use or operation in addition to theorientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in thefigures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” otherelements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elementsor features. Thus, the example term “below” may encompass both anorientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented(rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relativedescriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. The term“substantially” is defined as at least 95% of the term being describedand/or within a tolerance level known in the art and/or within 5%thereof.

Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross sectionillustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments.As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result,for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to beexpected. Thus, example embodiments described herein should not beconstrued as limited to the particular shapes of regions as illustratedherein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, forexample, from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated ordescribed as flat may, typically, have rough and/or nonlinear features.Moreover, sharp angles that are illustrated may be rounded. Thus, theregions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and theirshapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region andare not intended to limit the scope of the present claims.

In conclusion, herein is presented a toy projectile launching assembly.The disclosure is illustrated by example in the drawing figures, andthroughout the written description. It should be understood thatnumerous variations are possible, while adhering to the inventiveconcept. Such variations are contemplated as being a part of the presentdisclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A toy projectile launching assembly for launchingtoy projectiles, comprising: a platform defined by a rigid shallow“V-shaped” structure with a flat base portion, the flat base has anupper surface and a lower surface, including: a rigid left extensionhaving a rigid left elastic support, a rigid right extension having arigid right elastic support, and a rigid central region disposed betweenthe left extension and the right extension; an interior left elasticsupport and an interior right elastic support situated between the rigidexterior left elastic support, and the rigid exterior right elasticsupport; a first elastic launching element extending continuously fromthe left elastic support to the right elastic support, and a secondelastic launching element extending continuously from the left elasticsupport to the right elastic support; a handle attached to the lowersurface at the flat base; and an arm support structure having a leftside and right side that extends downwardly and rearwardly from theplatform.
 2. The toy projectile launching assembly of claim 1, whereinthe first elastic launching element and the second elastic launchingelement are each removably attached to the rigid left elastic supportand the rigid right elastic support.
 3. The toy projectile launchingassembly of claim 2, wherein both ends of the first elastic launchingelement and both ends of the second elastic launching element are eachremovably attached to two different removable brackets situated withinand attached to the lower surface side of the rigid left elastic supportand the rigid right elastic support.
 4. The toy projectile launchingassembly of claim 3, wherein both ends of the first elastic launchingelement and both ends of the second elastic launching element include asub-assembly including a mated double-nippled bead and hollow elasticcombination configured for attaching the launching elements to theremovable bracket through retention slots.
 5. The toy projectilelaunching assembly of claim 1, wherein the interior left elastic supportand an interior right elastic support each include an axle-rollerassembly to accommodate freely reversible stretch, bend, run, or roll ofthe first and second elastic launching elements about the roller-axlesubassembly, and to reduce frictional wear of the first and secondelastic launching elements during launching of a projectile.
 6. The toyprojectile launching assembly of claim 5, wherein each axle-rollerassembly is reversibly attached to the interior left elastic support andan interior right elastic support.
 7. The toy projectile launchingassembly of claim 5, wherein each axle-roller assembly is permanentlyattached to the interior left elastic support and an interior rightelastic support.
 8. The toy projectile launching assembly of claim 1,wherein the handle is reversibly attachable-detachable to the lowersurface of the platform and extends substantially orthogonallydownwardly from the lower surface of the central region.
 9. The toyprojectile launching assembly of claim 1, wherein the handle ispermanently attached to the lower surface to the platform.
 10. The toyprojectile launching assembly of claim 1, further comprising an armsupport strap attached to the left side and right side of the armsupport structure, the arm support strap including a clasp to adjust thetension of the strap.
 11. The toy projectile launching assembly of claim2, wherein both ends of the first elastic launching element and bothends of the second elastic launching element are each removably attachedto a removable bracket situated within a cavity and attached to thelower surface side of the rigid left elastic support and the rigid rightelastic support with knots of the elastic situated in the retentionslots.
 12. The toy projectile launching assembly of claim 1, the firstelastic launching element and the second elastic launching element arecoplanar and extend substantially parallel relative to each other abovethe central region.
 13. The toy projectile launching assembly of claim 1wherein the rear edges of the platform include one or more fasteners forremovably receiving and holding one or more toy projectiles.
 14. The toyprojectile launching assembly of claim 1 wherein the handle comprises apistol grip.